Country Stars React to the Loss of Kenny Rogers

 Posted by at 4:07 pm on March 22, 2020
Mar 222020
 

The loss of Kenny Rogers has hit the music community hard.  Here’s what everyone’s saying:

  • Bobby Bare – Kenny Rogers was one of the greatest, I’ve been thinking about him all day since I heard the sad news. When we went into Hall of Fame together, truth is, I thought he was already in! To be inducted alongside him made it that much more of an honor. ‘The Gamber’ is a great story song, so well written, and Kenny had an ear for really great songs. He had a magic voice, instantly recognizable. I will miss my friend.
  • Mickey Gilley – Kenny Rogers was a dear friend of mine. I worked with him back in 1959 in a recording studio in Houston, Texas. He was working with a jazz group known as the Bobby Doyle Trio at the time. A lot of folks didn’t know this, but Kenny played the upright bass on my first song that charted in Houston. I have lost a great friend and the music world has lost what I refer to as a superstar. He became a legend in country music, pop music and movies, as well. Truly a great talent overall. He will definitely be missed by me and all of his fans
  • Randy Travis – I love you. Stay in touch. Take care of yourself. And, if you ever start recording again, I want to be there’—kind words from my longtime friend, Kenny Rogers. He was always near when you needed him, with that infectious smile that lit a room. I had the honor of working with Kenny, numerous times, over the last 35 years—each time I was left a better person. The songs he gave us and the friendships he collected, will keep his all in touch with our brother, our hero, our friend. Rest easy, Kenny…we will record again, and you will be there. I love you, too!
  • Linda Davis – I am heartsick over the loss of my friend. We had many fun times-on and off stage! He took me around the world with him. Kenny was such a giving person. He taught me more than I could ever express. He invited me into the KR Family for which I am so thankful. Kenny shared everything… his talents, his stage… his family, friends and fans but most of all he shared his heart with me!! RIP Sweet Music Man
  • Jerry Lee Lewis – I am filled with profound sadness with the loss of my friend and fellow artist, Kenny Rogers. God Bless him and his family. He will be greatly missed by all, but his outstanding legacy will live on. Love you, my friend.
  • Terry McBride – I went to see Kenny with my dad right out of high school in Fort Worth. I had no idea that years later I would be touring, singing on his record and having a song recorded by him. Kenny was kind and wanted to meet me before my first show opening for him. We were Texans, bass players and he loved the fact that we had both played with the late, great Bobby Doyle. He was a gentleman and an Icon and I am proud to have known him.
  • Jeff Cook (Alabama) – Kenny Rogers was a pioneer in the music world. He was a friend of ALABAMA and will be missed by all. Rest in Peace.
  • Teddy Gentry (Alabama) – Last night we lost a friend and one of the classic voices that easily melted county, rock and pop together in a way no one had done before. We will certainly miss you Kenny.
  • Randy Owen (Alabama) – With sadness I heard about the passing of a great Hall of Famer. Kenny Rogers was a special treasure to country music and the world. He will be missed by all.
  • Charlie Daniels – Thank you Kenny Rogers for being a part of our lives for so long. Your songs are woven into the fabric of our memories — classics, that will live on in the musical heart of a world that will miss you so much. Rest in peace, Gambler.
  • Ricky Skaggs – Kenny Rogers was truly an artist of the highest caliber. As a singer, songwriter, entertainer, and actor, he opened doors and enhanced the careers of many other artists just by recording a song with them. His voice and smooth singing style enabled him to move in and out of different musical genres like walking from one room to the next. But music was not his only creative outlet. He was also an amazing photographer. Rest well my brother, you gave us a lot in this life!
  • Ray Stevens – Kenny was a nice man and a great entertainer who had a way of making a song all his own. He will be missed.
  • Larry Gatlin – I have lost an old friend and the world has lost a consummate entertainer. ‘The Gatlin Boys’ did hundreds of shows with ‘Kenneth’ as we called him. More often than not, I watched from the wings as he masterfully strutted and fretted his hour upon the stage. Last night, ‘the Gambler he broke even.’
  • John Anderson – Kenny was one of the few that successfully crossed genres. I’ve been a fan from a long time back, and we will all miss his voice and style.
  • Pam Tillis – As long as I can remember there has been Kenny Rogers. It began the moment daddy brought home his ‘First Edition’ album with the soon to be hit single ‘Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to Town.’ That song put daddy on the map as a songwriter, and Kenny Rogers became a legend in the making. And I loved that voice! Many years later as a fledgling entertainer, I got to open for him and watch a true master at work. A dream come true was getting to sing with him. Totally unreal. Another special moment was having Kenny Rogers, the photographer, take one of my favorite portraits of dad and I. Ever. A true renaissance man. Kenny, thank you for a lifetime of music and memories. Sending deepest sympathies to his family.
  • Doug Gray (Marshall Tucker Band) – To one of the old guys that taught me so much, God Bless you, Kenny. Keep an eye out for Larry Butler.
  • T.G. Sheppard – Kenny Rogers was not only my friend, he was my mentor. The void he leaves will be impossible to fill. Countless memories ‘Through the Years’ will never leave the people’s lives he so graciously touched. Rest in peace, dear friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to Wanda and his beautiful family.
  • Billy Dean – Kenny Rogers was a true southern gentleman. He brought sophistication, elegance and class to country music. He broke down many barriers and paved the way for so many artists. He taught me the importance of work ethic. My heart goes out to the entire Rogers family.
  • Aaron Tippin – The world has lost a legend and a great man. He was one of a kind and such an amazing talent. Prayers to Kenny’s family from ours.
  • Collin Raye – I am deeply saddened by the news of Kenny Rogers‘ passing. I am honored to say that I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Kenny on many occasions. He was always so kind, respectful, and uplifting to me. Being chosen by Kenny to perform at his Songwriters Hall of Fame induction in New York City years ago was one of the great honors of my career. Whenever I asked for his help at a charity event or show, Kenny always said yes. He was a wonderful, kind, loving, human being and a truly amazing artist who transcended all genres for every generation. Kenny will never be forgotten. I’ll forever be grateful and humbled to have known him and shared the stage with him. There will never be another Kenny Rogers. May God be with you, my friend.
  • Marty Raybon (Shenandoah) – In a time such as the days we are living through, Kenny Rogers embraces a known bright tomorrow. He left the pain in this world and has moved onto the shores of the everlasting. To his family we send our deepest condolences.
  • Dave Innis (Restless Heart) – Kenny Rogers set the gold standard for the music industry. Restless Heart was honored to tour with him in our early years, and we’ll never forget his kindness and encouragement. We were fortunate to perform with him again in 2013 and he still had the easy going manner, the storytelling magic and the unforgettable voice that made him a global superstar. We were inspired by his artistry and comforted by his humanity. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
  • Larry Stewart (Restless Heart) – Kenny’s songs, his voice and his style made a huge impact on me. He single-handedly changed the sound of the radio like no one else has since. What a wonderful human being as well. Thank you for your music, Kenny Rogers. You will be missed.
  • Darryl Worley – Kenny was always very kind to me. My mother was one of his biggest fans and he was very gracious to her as well. We will surely miss that unmistakable voice.
  • Sammy Kershaw – What a super legend. He was always nice to me. God bless the “Sweet Music Man.
  • Leroy Van Dyke – The passing of Kenny Rogers is a great loss to the entertainment industry, but his musical legacy will endure forever.
  • Moe Bandy – Kenny was in Branson for a time with me. What a great talent and a great legend in our business. He was always so nice to me. I always respected his talents so much.
  • Henry Paul (Blackhawk) – I was deeply saddened by the news of Kenny’s passing. Early on, I was profoundly influenced by his work in ‘The First Edition.’ For me it represented an early country rock musical persona done in precise and ultimately professional style. He went on to stardom of staggering heights and remained gracious through it all. An extremely rare talent!
  • Bill Anderson – The world has lost a great artist and interpreter of songs. I had the honor of announcing his election to the Country Music Hall of Fame, and was thrilled when I realized how much it meant to him. Even after all the other honors he had won, he was truly excited about this one. His accomplishments will live forever.
  • Billy Ray Cyrus – No one bridged the gap between country and pop more often and better than K R. He will be missed but his music and diverse style of story-telling will live on forever.
  • David Bellamy (Bellamy Brothers) – Going back to the late 70s and early 80s, we played a lot of dates together. He was one of the first artists to have a stage in the round, in the middle of the arena. He was also an accomplished photographer, and he shot some portraits of Howard and me. We really got to know Kenny through the years and are thankful for the memories. Love and prayers to his family.
  • Gene Watson – I had so much respect for Kenny Rogers – he was from Houston, Texas too. He was a truly unique vocalist and artist who easily transitioned from a group (First Edition), a duo, solo artist and actor. If he did it, it was the best.
  • Naomi Judd – Kenny Rogers was a dear family friend and he was one of the kindest, nicest guys. A true gentleman. I had the privilege sharing the stage with him as well as on screen, in the film Rio Diablo. The Judds were honored to celebrate him a few years ago during his tribute concert. Rest In Peace, Kenny. We love you.
  • Phil Vassar – Not just my hero, but my friend. Thank you for your guidance my brother. The world has lost the greatest storyteller.
  • Steve Wariner – Hearing Kenny Rogers‘ magnificent voice singing MY lyrics, my music, to ‘I’m Missing You,’ that was definitely a highlight! When KR sang that song, he OWNED it. What a talent and what a sweet man. Kenny, you certainly made this world a better place. Rest In Peace my friend.
  • Tanya Tucker – What a career, what a talent, what a legacy. Now this world is left with a big shadow, center stage where Kenny Rogers stood. No one else can take his place. Now he’s taken his place amongst the Heavenly stars. It’s a very sad day for all of us. But God is smiling. Rest easy my friend.
  • Karen Fairchild (Little Big Town) – I have the most wonderful memories of riding down the road with my family, radio up loud, singing along with Kenny Rogers. Didn’t know I’d grow up and get the chance to meet him, much less sing for him. He was one of a kind. The ultimate entertainer.
  • Barbara Mandrell – I felt so sad hearing of Kenny Rogers’ passing. He had one of my very favorite voices, and he was always so kind to me. We were friends for so many years. Thank you for sharing your gift with us all. Rest In Peace my friend.
  • Ronnie Milsap – I love Kenny Rogers! I even toured with him in the Spring and Fall of 1984. We recorded a duet, “Make No Mistake, She’s Mine”. This went to #1 on billboard charts, it also earned us a Grammy! Kenny, playing shows with you was lots of fun! I know you’re in Heaven now and just know all of us here will miss you forever. Rest In Peace, my brother!
  • Tim McGraw – l loved Kenny Rogers. My mom really loved Kenny…she took me outta school (7th grade or so) and dropped me at Monroe Civic Center to stand in line for tickets to his concert. I stood in line all day and got to the window just as last 2 tickets were sold.  Years later in college, I was working at the Civic Center selling popcorn up and down the aisles and got to see him. Still one of my favorites of all time….my mom still loves him. Love ya Kenny, my man. Sending love to Kenny’s family.
  • Suzy Bogguss – Before I knew I’d have the chance to live my dream I would watch Kenny Rogers with Johnny Carson and he’d pull a guitar from behind the couch and delight the audience with a perfect acoustic performance. It made me work harder on guitar so I could accompany myself that way. He was always so personable and at ease. Well, I sure never dreamed I’d get to tour with Kenny and sing on a record with him but wow, I did! Turned out he was the same charming, funny guy that I’d seen on the Tonight Show. Thanks Kenny for sharing your awesome sexy grainy voice and for helping newbies like myself and Billy Dean. I’ll always remember how you blushed when I was 7 mos pregnant and we’d sing “Baby It’s Cold Outside.” We’re gonna miss you friend. You’re gonna be a standout in the Angel Choir😘
  • Koe Wetzel – Damn, country music lost a real one today. Rest easy Kenny Rogers.
  • Carly Pearce – My heart is aching with the country music community over the loss of a legend, Kenny Rogers. His music impacted and shaped so many of our lives. Country music will never be the same.
  • Easton Corbin – Sing your song sweet music man, I believe in you…RIP Kenny Rogers, you will always be one of the greats.
  • Keith Urban – THANK YOU KENNY ROGERS– for decades of genre bending music and collaborations – for making music that travelled the globe .. and songs that became common threads for people from all walks of life !! GO REST HIGH BROTHER. With love and deep appreciation
  • Russell Dickerson – The world lost an icon last night. Thank you Kenny Rogers for sharing your music and talent with all of us. You will be greatly missed!
  • Brandy Clark – I never even met Kenny Rogers but his passing breaks my heart. His music is a large part of the soundtrack of my life. Heaven just got one of the greatest musicians and singers this planet ever heard. Rest easy and thank you for sharing your gift with us Kenny Rogers.
  • Michelle Wright – Kenny took me on tour in 91 & 92. I learned that it starts at the top. The kind of person you are trickles down. He had a loyal team & we were treated very kindly. Thank you Kenny for the opportunity of a lifetime to be side stage & to learn from a Legend. R.I.P. Kenny Rogers
  • Rick Trevino – RIP to the GOAT, Kenny Rogers. Prayers to his entire family.
  • Deborah Allen – This morning I woke up to the sad news that our friend ⁦Kenny Rogers⁩ has left us. He was truly a wonderful friend through the years. He blessed us with his sweet spirit, amazing talent, wisdom & kindness. I know Heaven welcomed Kenny with open arms.
  • Mark Chesnutt – When I first started out in this business. Kenny Rogers was one of the first really big artists that took me out on a tour. I ended up doing a couple of Christmas tours with him. He was such a great guy and would always come to check on me before the show. He will be missed!
  • Billy Gilman – Sad to hear the passing of a true legend. He was one of the kindest people I had the chance to meet and work with. He was so kind to lend his voice to a song I wrote called The Choice. He actually recorded his part on his tour bus. May he be in peace now. Love ya Kenny Rogers
  • Gone West – Kenny Rogers was an incredible man who left such an impact on Country Music. Jason wrote “Turn This World Around” for Kenny a few years back, which rings true now, more than ever. “Our beating hearts are singing now, for love to turn this world around,” rest easy Kenny.
  • T. Graham Brown – Kenny Rogers was a giant and had a heart to match. Over the years, I did over 200 shows with, “The Gambler” and he was always so kind and generous with the bands, crew, and me. I learned a lot about everything from KR. Sheila and I loved him very much.
  • Thompson Square – So sad to wake to the news of the loss of a musical giant today. So many great memories of listening and singing his songs over the years. Thank you for the music. RIP Kenny Rogers.
  • Clay Walker – Kenny Rogers was the most stylistic singer ever…Ruggedly beautiful tone and a delivery that hit its mark EVERY time. He had time to make his peace and I have no doubt he is making his way thru throngs of singers and fans as he walks thru the gates! New Beginnings!!!
  • Crystal Gayle – I’m going to miss my sweet friend that I’ve known through the years. I love you Kenny!
  • Lee Greenwood – I have known Kenny Rogers for as long as I can remember. I first saw him when I arrived in Las Vegas at 17 years old. He was playing standup bass and singing behind the Kirby Stone Four at the Thunderbird Hotel.  The second time was at the Flamingo when he returned with his own band, “the First Edition”. I had no idea at the time that he would become such an important person in my life.  After many years in Nevada, my career finally took off in Nashville. I began writing at MCA music and recording at MCA records. My first assignment was to write a song for Kenny.  “A Love Song” was scheduled to be on my first album, but MCA Music sent it to Kenny.  He recorded it, and it went number one all around the world at the same time – it was my first hit as a writer and it changed my life in many ways!  A few years later I would have the honor of touring with Kenny and opening for him across America and Canada. I found him to be the most caring, artistic, and genuine person I had ever known. He was always kind, encouraging, and fun to be with. His voice was magic and his performance on stage was powerful and dynamic. Thank you Kenny Rogers for being a friend to me. I’m a fan like the millions who loved you. I am blessed to have known and created music for you, my friend who I admired so much! He was an icon that thrilled millions around the world, and our hearts are broken by the news of his passing. Kim and I are sending love and prayers to Kenny’s wife Wanda, his children, and all of his family.
  • Tracy Lawrence – What an amazing journey Kenny Rogers had. I had the pleasure of visiting with him several times over the years. He was always very gracious to me. His music touched me from an early age.
  • Josh Abbott – We don’t talk enough about how badass Kenny Rogers was. We all know “The Gambler” & his duet with Dolly; but I’d encourage you to listen to some of his other albums. I love his version of “Tulsa Turnaround”. He didn’t write many, but damn he sang them like he did. RIP legend
  • Abby Anderson – Just read about Mr. Kenny Rogers death. What a legend. One of my favorite artists ever.
  • Brandon Rhyder – God bless Kenny Rogers! On a warm summer evening, on a train bound for nowhere. I met up w a gambler, we were both too tired to sleep…
  • Blake Shelton – I can’t express on twitter the impact Kenny Rogers the artist and the man had on me. He was always very kind and fun to be around. Rest In Peace Gambler…
  • Parker McCollum – RIP to an absolute legend and a Crockett, TX native… Kenny Rogers! Wow!
  • Kendell Marvel – She Believes In Me still stops me in my tracks when I hear it. Rest easy Sweet Music Man
  • Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – Asleep … when Mary yells “Oh Joseph … Kenny Rogers died” I am a man of words but right now I have none … I am stunned and heartbroken … I loved this man …
  • William Lee Golden (Oak Ridge Boys) – Kenny Rogers Rest In Peace Sir. Thank you for your friendship, music, and wonderful memories. Until we meet again. God bless.
  • BJ Thomas – RIP Kenny Rogers. We were friends for over 60 years. Toured together in the ‘80s. He was a great recording artist and dear friend. Prayers to his family.
  • Whitney Duncan – So sad to hear of Kenny Rogers’ passing. He is truly a legend and a great man. He was so kind to me & treated me like a daughter…even when he caught me stealing his M&Ms from his dressing room  #RIPKennyRogers
  • Jamey Johnson – So many songs you sang painted the canvas of my musical youth. Thank you for dedicating your life to enriching the lives of people like me with your gift. Rest well Sweet Music Man.
  • Keith Anderson – I’m crushed! Kenny Rogers and his VOICE are why I sing country music today. He’s why sing ANY music today. My biggest influence! I’m SO sad.
  • Mark Wills – I had no idea that when I was doing an Instagram live chat at 02:30 singing “The Gambler” that the news would be breaking of the passing of Kenny Rogers.  This breaks my heart! I am such a fan! I love his voice! You will be greatly missed Kenny!
  • Larry the Cable Guy – Oh man Kenny Rogers just died. RIP Gambler. Thanks for all the great music.
  • LeAnn Rimes – We will miss you Kenny Rogers.  You are and forever will be quite the legend. #thegambler #ripkennyrogers